Last night also saw the introduction of a new accolade, the Dame Mary Perkins Award for professionalism and expertise, which was presented to the store that has made the greatest contribution to raising awareness in the importance of eye care. It was won by Lanark joint venture partner, optometrist Rubena Kerr, and her team for their vigilance in detecting a life threatening brain tumour in their customer Michelle Crawford.

Comeback pop star Claire Richards and new Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith were recognised for their inimitable specs style at the 22nd annual Spectacle Wearer of the Year Awards in London in October 2017.

Steps singer Claire received the Specs Appeal Award, while culinary legend Prue took home the Services to Specs trophy. Also taking to the stage was Good Morning Britain's Richard Arnold, who was awarded Best Newcomer. Leading to some great exposure for Specsavers and the awards live on ITV this morning.

But as always, the main focus of the evening staged for the fourth year running at 8 Northumberland Avenue, was about celebrating everyday specs wearers while raising money for anti-bullying charity Kidscape.

Overall winner Alex Miller, a 27-year-old glazier from Essex, said his £10,000 cash prize would enable him to fulfil his dream of getting on to the property ladder.

The 2017 campaign smashed its fundraising target with monies raised on the night adding to a total of £120,000 raised for Kidscape this year. Collectively more than £500,000 has been raised for the charity since the partnership started nine years ago.

Alex Miller from Essex is crowned Spectacle Wearer of the Year 2017.

The 27-year-old said: 'I am absolutely thrilled to bits - I wasn't expecting to win at all so it was a huge surprise and honour! Having gone from being called four-eyes at school, to now becoming the Spectacle Wearer of the Year is just amazing, and goes to show how wearing glasses is something to be really proud of.'

Spectacle Wearer of the Year raises vital funds for anti-bullying charity, Kidscape